Tiger Soccer is back and the quest for a repeat has already begun.

The Tigers have started the year with tough competition, facing three quality teams from the Ohio Valley region, including MaxPreps’ previously #33 nationally ranked team, Madisonville-North Hopkins. The Tigers knocked off the Maroons 3-0.

After last year’s 1-0 win to claim their 19th state championship, the Tigers are back on the prowl, and they’ve begun the year as hot as the weather.

That heat has to come from somewhere, and on this team, it is the upperclassmen.

“This year’s seniors have done a great job keeping team morale high and inspiring the juniors and underclassmen,” junior Reed Newman said. “This season means so much to them, and they are going all out to try and make an impact. They have also been great leaders, motivating and encouraging others. Our captains do an incredible job leading by example and putting the team first… I want to be able to inspire others like our captains do.”

Senior captain Stone Work is one of the seniors setting the tone for the quest of back-to-back state championships.

“It is a great honor to be a captain on the soccer team and to have underclassman look up to me as I did when I was in their shoes,” Work said in response to being looked at as a leader. “It is a responsibility for me to now lead by example. I expect for everyone to give their 100% effort all the time.”

Off to a fantastic start to the year, it is clear the team is on the right path to be where they were last October. With only a month to go in the regular season, the seniors continue to capitalize on their phenomenal start to the year by sticking together and aiming towards their common goal. Thanks to our incredible athletes and leaders, St. X soccer remains the top tier team in the state.